UN welcomes stepped up action against Boko Haram

The UN Security Council has urged countries in West and Central Africa to step up regional military operations to counter Boko Haram.

It has also welcomed a meeting in Cameroon to finalise plans for a 7,500 strong force to fight the Islamic extremists.

Cameroon and Chad joined Nigeria in launching an air and ground offensive this week.

Meanwhile, military action involving other nations is expected to increase following the meeting in Cameroon's capital, Yaounde, which began yesterday and ends tomorrow.

A press statement issued by the Council commended the Chadian army's swift assistance in the fight against Boko Haram in Nigeria which neutralised more than 200 terrorists and led to the recovery of territories from the militants.

NEWS24